Adobe Flash Player removed from Google Play

Further updates to the app will only be available to users who already have it installed on their handsets as the software company continues its gradual withdrawal from the mobile market.

"Devices that do not have Flash Player already installed are increasingly likely to be incompatible with Flash Player and will no longer be able to install it from the Google Play Store after August 15," said Adobe in a statement.

"The easiest way to ensure ongoing access to Flash Player on Android 4.0 or earlier devices is to use certified devices and ensure that the Flash Player is either pre-installed by the manufacturer or installed from Google Play Store before August 15."

Adobe announced back in November last year that it is winding down Flash's presence in the mobile phone market. Google's Android 4.1 Jelly Bean is not compatible with the software, and Apple's iPhone line has never supported it.

The company will continue to invest resources in the desktop Flash plug-in, and support the mobile with Adobe AIR.